The midsize SUV segment in India is more crowded than ever, with automakers launching new models to grab a slice of this lucrative space. Hyundai is the latest to jump in with its three-row Alcazar SUV. This premium offering competes with Tata Safari and MG Hector Plus.
So, how does the Hyundai Alcazar stack up against its formidable competitors? Let’s find out in this in-depth comparison review.
Exterior Styling and Design
First impressions matter, so let’s begin with how these SUVs look from the outside.
Hyundai Alcazar
From the imposing front grille to the bold alloy wheels, the Alcazar makes a strong style statement. The LED headlamps and fog lamps are sleek, while the coupe-like roofline with a spoiler amplifies sportiness. Sharp creases on the bonnet and sides give it a muscular stance. Overall, the Alcazar blends elegance and ruggedness well.
Tata Safari
With its upright posture, the Safari channels the spirit of its iconic predecessor. The wide grille with tri-arrow motifs looks butch, as do the split LED headlamps. The flared wheel arches and alloys accentuate the SUV styling. But the rear looks plain compared to rivals. Safari’s design leans towards function over form.
MG Hector Plus
The Hector Plus sports MG’s signature gloss black grille with chrome accents up front. The LED headlights and DRLs are sleekly integrated. The roof rails, skid plates and dual exhaust tips highlight the SUV's character. But the rear design looks lacklustre. It's not as flashy as its rivals.
Cabin Space, Comfort and Practicality
Space and comfort are significant for an urban family SUV. Let's see how these models compare in these aspects:
Hyundai Alcazar
With its long 2760mm wheelbase, the Alcazar offers generous room for 6 or 7 occupants. The second-row slides for easy third-row access. The seats are draped in soft leatherette and offer excellent support. The cabin feels premium, with ambient lighting, a panoramic sunroof, and easy-to-use controls.
Tata Safari
Thanks to its 2770 mm wheelbase, the Safari offers impressive cabin space. The middle-row seats slide and recline for comfort. The third row is best suited for kids, though. The cabin finishes are decent, but some plastics feel low-rent. Storage spaces and bottle holders are well thought out.
MG Hector Plus
Despite being the most extended SUV here, the MG Hector Plus has less usable cabin space than its rivals. The third row needs to be fixed and made more accessible. However, the seats are comfortable, and the quality levels are impressive. The need for sliding seats compromises practicality, though. Interestingly, some features and design elements in the MG Hector Plus are reminiscent of those found in compact vehicles like the Hyundai i20, which emphasises user-friendly design and comfort, albeit in a smaller footprint.
Ride and Handling Characteristics
An urban family SUV must offer a compliant ride and predictable handling. Here's how these SUVs deliver on these aspects:
Hyundai Alcazar
The Alcazar offers a compliant ride over bad roads, soaking up bumps nicely. Sharp undulations can cause some vertical movements, though. The steering is light and makes urban commutes easy. Handling is neutral, but body roll is prominent during hard cornering.
Tata Safari
With its tall stance, the Safari has some body roll during directional changes. But the suspension delivers a pliant ride quality and absorbs shocks very competently. The steering is slightly heavier at low speeds. High-speed dynamics are stable and predictable.
MG Hector Plus
Set up on the softer side, the Hector Plus has a comfy ride that effectively smothers road irregularities. However, its bouncy nature and nose dive make it feel less composed. The light steering is great for city use. It does have body roll in corners but stays stable.
Features and Technology
Urban families want the latest gadgets and connected tech in their SUVs. Here's how our contenders stack up:
Hyundai Alcazar
The top-spec Alcazar variants are packed with features:
10.25-inch touchscreen
Bose sound system
Ambient lighting
Powered driver's seat
Ventilated front seats
Wireless charger
Panoramic sunroof
Digital driver’s display
Multiple airbags and ADAS tech
Tata Safari
The Safari gets the following headline features:
Floating island 9.0-inch touchscreen
Panoramic sunroof
Powered driver’s seat
Wireless charger
Semi-digital instrument cluster
Multiple airbags and driving aids
MG Hector Plus
MG has equipped the Hector Plus with:
10.4-inch touchscreen
Infinity sound system
Panoramic sunroof
Powered front seats
Ambient lighting
Auto AC
Front parking sensors
6 airbags and auto emergency braking
Safety
Safety should be the number one priority for family vehicles. Here's an overview of the safety technologies offered:
Hyundai Alcazar
6 airbags standard
Electronic Stability Control
Hill Assist Control
All-wheel disc brakes
Rear parking sensors and camera
Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
ADAS tech like blind-spot monitoring (top variant)
Tata Safari
6 airbags standard
Electronic Stability Program
Traction Control
Hill Hold Control
Rear parking sensors and camera
MG Hector Plus
6 airbags
Electronic Stability Program
Traction control
Hill descent control
Front parking sensors
Rear parking camera
Conclusion
The Hyundai Alcazar strikes the ideal middle ground with its sophisticated and balanced design, premium and spacious interiors, plush rides, efficient engines, and extensive safety features. For buyers seeking a refined and feature-packed urban family SUV without overstated styling or performance, the Alcazar hits the sweet spot and is the most well-rounded choice in this competitive segment.
